Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine that has been developed over thousands of years of observation, trial, and error. It is at once a medical science and a healing art, and it has been continuously refined by a long line of masters from the Stone Age to the 21st century. Recent advancements in Acupuncture have included the integration of many modern scientific methods and certain aspects of Western medical practice, but Traditional Chinese Medicine differs from straightforward Western medicine in that a new theory, drug, or medical practice does not invalidate previous theories and treatments.

Practitioners of this ancient modality take the "Traditional" part of its name seriously, and, generation after generation, they build on the wisdom of the past to multiply its benefits for the future. This open-mindedness affords an Acupuncturist the flexibility to individualize treatments based on the needs of each patient’s particular case. This medicine does not seek only to manage symptoms - getting to the root of the problem is what prevents future recurrences and new manifestations of illness.

Working within the framework of a larger philosophy enables Acupuncture to effectively treat conditions that Western medicine is often unable to diagnose. This philosophy is rooted in the Taoist principles of Yin and Yang, the two forces that make up the Universe and everything in it - including our human bodies. Defined as opposites, Yin and Yang actually have a symbiotic relationship - without one, the other would not exist. They are constantly in flux, interchanging and transforming us as we live our lives.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a healthy constitution is one in which Yin and Yang are in balance. An excess of one or the other can result in physical, mental, or emotional pathology. Put simply, the practitioner assesses the state of the patient’s Yin and Yang and seeks to balance these forces through Acupuncture and medicinal herbal formulae.

An Acupuncturist helps to achieve this healing balance by promoting the harmonious flow of blood and Qi (pronounced "chee"). Qi is the energy force that moves within the many energy channels, or meridians, that are accessed by needling specific points on the body. Each point has its functions, and an appropriate combination are needled to achieve the necessary effects.

Aside from making you feel wonderful, Acupuncture and herbs treat a wide variety of ailments - from depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional disorders to debilitating diseases and chronic conditions. Weight loss, smoking cessation and detoxification from alcohol and drug dependency are all successfully promoted by treatment from an Acupuncturist. Patients undergoing fertility treatments such as IVF can significantly increase their chances of conceiving. Physical ailments such as neck/back pain, migraine headaches, arthritis and digestive disorders can see dramatic change for the better.  

For more comprehensive information on all of the conditions that an Acupuncturist and Herbologist can successfully treat, please click here, or contact Joshua to discuss your specific concerns.